Public Programs

In addition to tours and exhibits, President Lincoln’s Cottage provides the community with a diverse spectrum of public programs and special events that allow the public to experience the historic grounds in new and different ways. Our programs and events build community, share groundbreaking scholarship, advance big ideas, and foster new understanding and dialogue about the vital part of American history that unfolded here and its relation to freedom today. Our programs fulfill and support the mission of President Lincoln’s Cottage, a nonprofit public charity.

Upcoming Events

Join our new initiative for our youngest learners, Social Studies, which provides programming that encourages social and emotional intelligence through games, interactive play, and stories. Social Studies programming provides the space and opportunity for early learners to experiment and practice these social and emotional skills to become future leaders.

While living at the Soldiers’ Home, Lincoln made nation-changing decisions about the country and freedom, most notably the Emancipation Proclamation. During his time here, Lincoln faced criticism and doubts from himself and others. Despite these external and internal pressures, he bravely managed his stress and motivated himself to achieve his goals. Join President Lincoln’s Cottage in an exploration of your own determination and resilience through storytelling, hands-on activities, and reflection. Tickets are $5 per child.

Homecoming Saturday September 21

During the Civil War, the Lincoln family called the Cottage home. This year we welcome everyone back “home” to join us for a full day of racing and family fun activities at Homecoming on Saturday, September 21, 2019!

Cottage Conversations

Our first two Cottage Conversations of the Fall are scheduled.

Cottage Conversations offer relaxing evenings to socialize and learn something new about our 16th president from authors, collectors, and artists. The program begins with a cocktail reception, is followed by the conversation, and concludes with a book signing.

September 12 — Sidney Blumenthal, author of All the Powers of Earth: The Political Life of Abraham Lincoln Vol. III, 1856-1860

On Thursday, September 12, 2019, join us as Representative Jamie Raskin and Sidney Blumenthal discuss Blumenthal’s new book, All the Powers of Earth: The Political Life of Abraham Lincoln Vol. III, 1856-1860. Click here for more info.

Reception: 6:00 pm, Robert H. Smith Visitor Education Center

Conversation: 6:30 pm, President Lincoln’s Cottage

Admission: $10 for the lecture and $10 for the reception. Free for Cottage members at the $250 level or above. If you’re a Cottage member at the $250 level or above, email Joan Cummins to reserve your ticket: JCummins@lincolncottage.org

October 10 — Doug Waller, author of Lincoln’s Spies: Their Secret War to Save a Nation

On Thursday, October 10, 2019, join us as Doug Waller discusses his new book, Lincoln’s Spies: Their Secret War to Save a Nation, which is a story of espionage, sabotage, and intrigue—and of a shrewd president who valued what his operatives uncovered. Click here for more info.

Reception: 6:00 pm, Robert H. Smith Visitor Education Center

Conversation: 6:30 pm, President Lincoln’s Cottage

Admission: $10 for the lecture and $10 for the reception. Free for Cottage members at the $250 level or above. If you’re a Cottage member at the $250 level or above, email Joan Cummins to reserve your ticket: JCummins@lincolncottage.org

Two Faces Comedy Series

Back by popular demand, and drawing inspiration from Abraham Lincoln’s legendary humor and self-deprecation, President Lincoln’s Cottage and The DC Improvare again partnering to present Two Faces Comedy, the first comedy series to transform Lincoln’s living room into a comedy den.

This will be a series of three comedy nights: Tuesday, September 24th, Monday, October 21st, & Wednesday, November 13th. All shows begin at 7:30pm.